§ 2. Mr. Hoosonasked the Secretary of State for Wales, when he will set up a Welsh Water Board.
§ The Minister of State, Welsh Office (Mr. Goronwy Roberts)In the light of the Prime Minister's statement of 19th January, the Secretary of State is considering, in consultation with the other Ministers, what machinery would be most appropriate for advising him on the discharge of his executive responsibilities in Wales.
§ Mr. HoosonIn view of the Prime Minister's reply to a Question which I asked last Tuesday, may I ask the hon. Gentleman whether he will confirm that the responsibility for this matter rests firmly with the Welsh Department and with the Secretary of State for Wales? 377 Will he also confirm that it is the policy of the Government to set up a Welsh Water Board?
§ Mr. RobertsExecutive responsibility for water supply and river management in Wales will now rest with the Secretary of State for Wales. In view of the nature and extent of these executive responsibilities, it is clearly a matter for careful consideration what further arrangements are necessary and desirable.
§ Mr. HoosonMay I take it that the hon. Gentleman's answer means that the Government do not intend to set up a Welsh Water Board?
§ Mr. RobertsThe Secretary of State for Wales, as I have clearly indicated, will now, in the light of the executive responsibilities transferred to him, give careful consideration to what further arrangements are necessary to assist him in administering water policy in Wales.